Erythema nodusum, the commonest panniculitis, is characterised by painful, tender erythematous nodules most commonly located on the shins.
There may be a prodomal illness of malaise, low-grade fever, cough and arthralgia prior to the appearance of nodules.
It tends to heal without scars.
Causes of erythema nodosum include:
- Infections
- Streptococcal – most commonly identifiable cause
- Mycoplasma
- Mycobacterium (TB)
- Yersinia
- Chlamydia
- Viral infections
- Drugs
- OCP
- Antibiotics
- Plus many more
- Other
- Sarcoidosis
- Pregnancy
- IBD
- Malignancy
- Most commonly lymphoma or leukaemia
Management
- Treat underlying condition
- NSAIDs for pain
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